A key development in the case of Irish nanny Aisling McCarthy Brady is anticipated later this week at a pre-trial hearing in the US. Ms McCarthy B rady (35) from Lavey in Co Cavan, is facing first-degree murder charges over the death of Rehma Sabir (1), who died in her care in Boston in January last year.

Two weeks ago, a Massachusetts court gave the green light to medical experts to carry out a series of further examinations on the body of baby Rehma to determine if the tot had suffered abuse prior to her death. Defence lawyers have been pressing to gain access to the baby's remains for the past 18 months, arguing that evidence could be found from a post-autopsy procedure which could exonerate their client.

Bomb call a hoax

The army bomb squad carried out two controlled explosions on a tyre bomb which turned out to be an elaborate hoax.

The van tyre had been packed with nails and wires and left outside a business premises in Edenmore, near Raheny, Dublin, yesterday.

Gardai are investigating the incident in which a name and RIP was painted on the tyre. Gardai sealed off surrounding roads while the army Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit was called. A number of homes were evacuated as a precaution.

Fleadh fights rip-offs

More than 100 businesses in Sligo have signed a charter to ensure thousands of visitors to next week's Fleadh Cheoil na hEireann are not ripped off during their stay.

The Fleadh, the world's biggest traditional Irish music festival, begins on Sunday and runs for a week.

Up to 350,000 visitors are expected and the local economy is set to enjoy a €30m windfall. More than 100 local businesses have signed the charter to ensure visitors to the Fleadh will not be over-charged for food, drink and other services. Those backing the 'In Tune' charter will display a special sticker in shop windows.

House petrol bombed

A PETROL bomb attack on a Cork house may be linked to a long-running feud.

Gardai are investigating the attack on the property, which took place at 11.30pm on Friday evening. Nobody was injured in the incident. However, the woman who is the sole occupant of the house was shocked by the attack. A fire broke out but did not spread beyond minor scorching to the front door.